Social activist and popular Nigerian skit maker, Debo Adebayo, widely recognized by his stage name, Mr. Macaroni, has issued a powerful critique directed at Nigerian politicians, specifically emphasizing that Nigeria should not be regarded as a private entity. His remarks highlight his frustration with certain government officials' perceived disregard for citizens, a sentiment he believes stems from a lack of accountability among the political class.
In a recent statement shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Mr. Macaroni expressed dismay over what he perceives as an ever-widening disconnect between Nigerian politicians and the everyday struggles of the citizens they are elected to serve. He argues that this disconnection has reached a critical point, as politicians appear increasingly disconnected from the hardships faced by the Nigerian populace, acting as though the nation and its resources are theirs to command without question or reproach.
A key example cited by Mr. Macaroni in his critique was Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike. Referring to a recent incident, he alleged that Wike had questioned whether some Nigerian citizens were “stupid” while addressing them, suggesting a blatant disregard for the dignity and intelligence of those he serves. Macaroni argued that this incident serves as a prime example of a problematic trend among government officials who, he claims, fail to acknowledge the resilience and worth of the citizens.
In his post, Mr. Macaroni reminded the politicians that their position as public servants comes with a responsibility to serve with respect, humility, and integrity. Sharing his thoughts, he wrote, “Nigerian Politicians lack regard for Nigerians and this is because they have never been accountable to the people.”
Mr. Macaroni pointed out that as a civil servant, the Federal Capital Territory Minister should not exhibit such arrogance or disrespect towards the very people who, in essence, pay his salary. He was particularly disturbed by the Minister’s choice of words, quoting Wike’s alleged statement: “are you stupid, is it because I came down to talk to you?” In Macaroni’s view, such remarks from a public servant underscore the lack of accountability and respect that some Nigerian leaders have toward the public.
He continued to assert that whatever privileges a politician’s office provides are solely a function of their role in serving the people. According to him, “You work for the people and not the other way around. Arrogance has no place in public office!!!” Mr. Macaroni further emphasized that “Nigeria is not a private entity. Your duty is to serve!!! You are not anybody’s chairman.”
Additionally, he called on citizens to remind politicians of their responsibility to serve, encouraging Nigerians to demand respectful treatment from those in office. Addressing Wike directly, he wrote, “Dear @GovWike, you are a PUBLIC SERVANT! Next time you want to address the citizens who pay your salary, do so with utmost humility and respect.” He went on to caution that officials should never approach citizens with disdain, adding, “Never go about asking Nigerians if they are stupid… you are not doing anyone a favor by being Minister!!!”
Mr. Macaroni also used this opportunity to address the actions of Honourable Alex Ikwechegh, a politician who was reported to have allegedly assaulted a cab driver recently. Expressing disappointment, Macaroni lamented, “It is not the first time a Nigerian Politician is assaulting a Citizen.” He suggested that this trend of abusive behavior is unlikely to cease anytime soon because of the low standards many have come to expect from public officials.
He wrote, “It doesn’t look like it will stop anytime soon because the bar is so low. The people have allowed them to get away with so much ineptitude. We have public servants moving around like gods.” Macaroni continued to criticize what he perceives as a sense of entitlement among Nigerian politicians, who, he says, should instead remember that it is an honor to serve the public.
In his impassioned appeal, Mr. Macaroni added, “If politicians do not understand that it’s an honor to serve, then they shouldn’t even be in office. Resign and go lord over your family members!!!” He underscored his point by addressing the consequences he believes should follow any public servant’s misuse of power, remarking, “In a Society where there are consequences for actions, he [Hon. Ikwechegh] will be recalled and prosecuted so that he can go and flex his muscles inside Prison.”